Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, popular for heavy-duty work, towing, and hauling. Competes with Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Key Advantages 2002 Ram:
Distinctive styling, powerful engine options (especially the Cummins diesel), robust build quality, capable towing and payload capacities.
Manual Benefits:
Empowers DIY mechanics and professional technicians with comprehensive information for accurate diagnosis and repair, reducing labor costs and downtime. Covers all major systems for a complete service solution.
Vehicle Appeal:
Renowned for its distinctive 'crosshair' grille design, robust chassis, and the availability of the highly regarded Cummins turbodiesel engine, making it a workhorse and a favorite among truck enthusiasts.
Engine:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 (Gas), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
Transmission:
45RFE/545RFE (4-speed automatic), NV3500 (5-speed manual), NV4500 (5-speed manual), NV5600 (6-speed manual)
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, transfer case (2WD/4WD), propeller shafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent torsion bar/coil spring options), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering, steering linkage).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), parking brake system.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, gauges, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), fuse and relay identification.
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, seals, HVAC system (air conditioning, heating, ventilation).
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble code (DTC) interpretation, scan tool procedures, component testing, circuit diagrams, wiring schematics.
Engine Repair:
Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head service, piston/ring installation, crankshaft/bearing service, valve train repair, timing belt/chain service (where applicable), cooling system service, lubrication system service.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid change, filter replacement, torque converter service, clutch replacement (manual), transmission overhaul procedures (automatic and manual).
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS component diagnosis and replacement.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint/tie rod end replacement, wheel bearing replacement, power steering pump/rack and pinion service.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Charging system testing, starting system troubleshooting, ignition system repair, lighting system diagnosis, body electrical component testing, wiring harness repair.
Body Work:
Door panel removal, glass replacement, seal replacement, minor body panel repair procedures, interior trim component removal/installation.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant recharge, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor replacement, ducting inspection.
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, complete overhaul instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, special tool recommendations, and exploded views for assembly/disassembly.
Manual Standard:
NV3500 5-speed manual (1500 models, 2WD)
Automatic Optional:
45RFE/545RFE 4-speed automatic (1500 models)
Heavy Duty Manual Optional:
NV4500 5-speed manual (2500/3500 models)
Heavy Duty Manual Optional 2:
NV5600 6-speed manual (2500/3500 models with Cummins)
Heavy Duty Automatic Optional:
47RE 4-speed automatic (2500/3500 models with 5.9L Magnum V8)
Heavy Duty Automatic Optional 2:
48RE 4-speed automatic (2500/3500 models with 5.9L Cummins Diesel - some late 2002 models, primarily 2003 MY intro)
Transfer Case Options:
Part-time 4WD (NV241DLD, NV241DHD), Full-time 4WD (NV244 - optional on some models).
Wheelbase Regular Cab Standard Bed:
131.3 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab Standard Bed:
147.3 inches
Wheelbase Crew Cab Standard Bed:
160.3 inches
Bed Lengths:
6.3 feet (standard), 8.0 feet (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 7,500 lbs (Varies significantly by configuration, engine, and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 13,000+ lbs (with 3500, Cummins, appropriate configurations)
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 6,000+ lbs (with 3500, appropriate configurations)
Oil Change Gas:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 7,500-15,000 miles or 6-12 months (Cummins engines).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on service classification.
Engine Oil Gas Recommendation:
API SJ or SL rated, SAE 5W-30 (most engines), SAE 10W-30 for certain conditions.
Engine Oil Diesel Recommendation:
API CH-4 or CI-4 rated, SAE 15W-40 (Cummins engines).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (MS-9602 compliant) for 45RFE/545RFE and 47RE/48RE transmissions.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid (specific viscosity varies by transmission model, consult manual).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix).
Common Problems General:
Interior trim wear, HVAC blend door actuator failure, exhaust manifold leaks (especially on V8s), automatic transmission issues (particularly on early 47RE/48RE units under heavy use).
Common Problems Cummins:
Injector line failures, VP44 injection pump issues (earlier models), potential for cracking exhaust manifolds, turbocharger issues (high mileage).
